Abstract: Global energy supply and consumption are closely linked to living standards. Currently, the major energy supply in the world comes from fossil fuels, which are responsible for climate changes and ocean acidification caused by CO2 emissions. Consequently, effective CO2 mitigation has driven the search for alternative and clean energy sources in a sustainable way. Recent advances in nanoscience and technology have enabled the controllable design and construction of nanostructured materials for applications in the clean energy fields, including nano- catalysis, energy conversion and storage.
In this talk, we will discuss: (1) two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials with controlled interlayer spacing and nanoarchitecture for lithium-ion battery and supercapacitor applications; (2) unraveling the nature of active sites at metal-oxide interfaces for H2 production by combining synthesis of well- defined nanostructures and in situ characterization tools; (3) green hydrogen production research at the Center for Nanoscale Materials; and (4) leveraging existing cutting-edge capabilities and scientific areas at CNM to support users.